interceptor

American  

[in-ter-sep-ter] / ˌɪn tərˈsɛp tər /

Or intercepter

noun

1. a person or thing that intercepts.

2. Military. a fighter aircraft with fast-reaction capabilities, used to identify and, if appropriate, engage other aircraft in combat.

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interceptor British  

/ ˌɪntəˈsɛptə /

noun

1. a person or thing that intercepts

2. a fast highly manoeuvrable fighter aircraft used to intercept enemy aircraft

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Etymology

Origin of interceptor

1590–1600; < Latin, equivalent to intercep- ( intercept ) + -tor -tor ( def. )

Example Sentences

In addition to protecting the airfields with antimissile interceptors and counterdrone defenses, the U.S. has taken steps to operate at a distance from Iran.

From The Wall Street Journal

The U.S. military is trying to dramatically increase missile and interceptor production to replenish stocks and maintain its strike capabilities in the current conflict.

From Barron's

Nations including Saudi Arabia have launched multimillion-dollar Patriot interceptors and fired missiles from aircraft to take out Iranian drones.

From The Wall Street Journal

Ukraine faced the same problem over three years ago, forcing it to develop a multilayered approach that integrated mobile air-defense groups, jamming and interceptor drones to help shield its skies.

From The Wall Street Journal

These include bombers and fighter jets, as well as aircraft carriers and missile interceptors.

From BBC